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Refreshing The Public Realm

Manulife Centre Landscape + Public Realm Renewal

Project Details

The Challenge

To develop a cohesive design plan to regenerate Manulife Centre that effectively balances the needs and vision of the client, Business Improvement Area (BIA), and multiple levels of government involved.

Project Photos

Bloor Street boasts Canada’s most expensive retail rental rates and represents the most iconic international luxury and mid-priced brands. Manulife Centre, situated at Bay and Bloor, is a landmark urban corner and needed a rejuvenation to reflect its prominent location. As both building and landscape architect, B+H reenergized and revitalized the streetscape of the block and surrounding area to address key components of public realm design while addressing the different concerns among key influencers and decision-makers.

Tasked with the challenge of maximizing retail space to encourage maximum revenue while not reducing the area and utility of public realm space, the resulting landscape design plan reflects an enhanced and meaningful pedestrian and commercial urban experience. Complete with widened sidewalks, mature trees, bike racks, integrated seating, and striking granite and glass frontages, Manulife Centre creates a consistent streetscape in both look and feel and fits into the context of this high-end area of the city. The creation of a pedestrian-friendly and animated streetscape with easy access to the building makes Manulife Centre an enviable shopping destination.